The text describes the crows as ‘monaclae’ which for the purposes of this painting I have taken as Jackdaws, since their taxonomic name appears better related (monedula) to the writer’s description, than that of the magpie.

Having observed Jackdaws over many years, to walk unhindered through a group of these lively, social and skittish birds is – miraculous. The red gesture suggests the gentle, passing presence of the Stigmatic.